Singin’ in the Rain

Amateur companies are finding it harder and harder to produce a show that will draw the crowds but Abbey Players came up with just the right show to do that with this production of Singin’ in the Rain. With good houses from the first performance, the Swansea Grand was full and the audience were not disappointed.

The set left a little to be desired and the lighting could have been used to better effect, but the costumes were excellent, as one always expects of our very talented local costumier ‘ACE Costumes’ (no, I’m not on commission!) and added so much to the production.

The ensemble were very good and the best I’ve seen them perform in recent Abbey productions and the dancers were all strong and committed. At times I feel they could have delivered a little more vocally but their energy was exemplary. The band was quiet at times and the balance with the cast not quite right. I was also missing the real string sound to compliment the rest of the instruments gathered. Never compromise on strings with a lavish show like this as they really make the difference, but I do understand that cost is an element to consider.

There were some delightful performances from the principals and mention must go to Lyn Williams and a great performance from Simon John as the Dictation Teacher. Simon Lloyd-Jones and Lee Lloyd-Jones played lovely cameo roles as did Cath Van Wyck and Karen Webb. Jean Buckland delivered the role of Dora Bailiey with the panache we have come to expect of this talented lady and Bruce Miller was a good R.F. Simpson, the owner of the production company.

Nick Packer sang the role of Don Lockwood with great sensitivity demonstrating lovely vocal ability and the ever talented Sarah Clatworthy played and sang the role of Kathy Seldon perfectly. The stars of the evening for me were Joanne Griffiths who was a brilliant Lina Lamont, expertly delievering her song ‘What’s wrong with me’ and the performance given by Michael Aubin as Cosmo Brown was fabulous. His comic timing, physical stamina, dance ability and excellent characterisation really impressed me. Well done to him and the entire company for a very enjoyable evening!

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